Muscat – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MSFWR) has successfully deployed 180 artificial reef units off the coast of Barka, marking a significant step towards enhancing fish stocks and improving fishing conditions.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Adhari Qassim Rashid Al Shamakhi, Coral Reef Technician at the Blue Economy Department of the ministry, said the project is part of a strategy to support sustainable marine resources and generate added economic value for the fisheries sector.

She noted that the initiative aims to improve the economic conditions of fishermen in Barka by increasing catch, particularly of high-value fish species, while reducing operational fishing costs. The project also seeks to rehabilitate barren marine areas and transform these into thriving ecosystems rich in marine life.

Adhari explained that the artificial reefs are designed to create suitable habitats for the growth and reproduction of marine organisms, especially in areas lacking natural coral reefs, thereby enhancing biodiversity and strengthening fish stocks. She added that the project also holds tourism and scientific value by attracting diving enthusiasts and supporting marine research.

The deployed units include 160 Arab Pyramid structures, 16 cubic units and four steel frames, all constructed using reinforced concrete and steel to ensure durability and environmental safety.

She added that site selection was based on comprehensive scientific studies, including seabed analysis and marine current assessments, while taking into account traditional fishing zones, marine infrastructure and target fish species.

According to Adhari, the reefs are expected to significantly enhance fish stocks and marine biodiversity by providing ideal environments for feeding and reproduction. These will also create optimal fishing grounds, reducing effort for fishermen and improving their income.

The artificial reefs cover a total area of 40,000sqm and have been deployed at depths ranging from 15m to 25m – carefully chosen to maximise ecological effectiveness.

Adhari highlighted the project’s direct positive impact on local fishermen, noting that it will increase fishing opportunities, provide safer and new fishing grounds, and reduce pressure on natural habitats.

She also pointed to the key role played by the Agricultural and Fisheries Development Fund in financing the project across all stages, from design and manufacturing to deployment, as well as its continued support for sustainability-focused initiatives.

Despite its benefits, the project faced several technical and environmental challenges, including unstable seabed conditions, sedimentation that could cover reef units, ensuring structural stability and selecting environmentally friendly materials. The reefs were also designed to avoid interfering with fishing activities or damaging nets.

Looking ahead, Adhari revealed that plans are underway to expand similar projects to other coastal wilayats, with ongoing implementation in Suhar and Musannah as part of a wider national programme.

On monitoring and evaluation, she said the executing company, in coordination with MAFWR specialists, will track reef development over a 24-month period through biannual diving inspections, documenting progress with photos and videos, culminating in a comprehensive final report.

Adhari concluded by urging the community and fishermen to protect these reefs as a national asset, adhere to sustainable fishing practices, avoid damaging the structures or polluting the sea, and cooperate in preserving the marine environment for future generations.